Rocpool Reserve Hotel

Think of everything you know about hotels, then forget it all instantly. Rocpool Reserve will redefine the experience forever. It’s about elegance, not exhibitionism. Glow, not glitter. Quality, not quantity. Our discreet new boutique hotel, bar and restaurant offers you wonderful luxury in the heart of Inverness. It’s an invitation to come and indulge in an exclusive hideaway in the centre of the city.  Rocpool Reserve was bought by Inverlochy Castle in March 2008 and is a terrific combination of a brilliant original concept now married with genuinely world-class abilities and experience in service, food and investment. It’s a fabulous small luxury hotel and spot-on for a special break in the Highland capital.

Rocpool Reserve Hotel & Restaurant is situated in the heart of Inverness just a few minutes’ walk from the High Street and Inverness Castle.  We are only 20 minutes travel from Inverness Airport and approximately 5 minutes from Inverness Bus and Train Stations.

There are four kinds of rooms to choose from. Which is it going to be? Do you feel decidedly decadent or extra decadent? Classically chic? Inherently hip? (There’s no wrong answer.)  In all there are 11 air-conditioned bedrooms, in 4 categories: Hip, Chic, Decadent and a pair of Extra Decadent rooms. All are finished to a high spec and, mainly, the difference between room grades is in the size – though some rooms have decided individual strengths. Dark wood furniture and plush fabrics declaim ‘luxury’ in the modern way. All the latest technology is present, from big flatscreen TV / DVDs to wi-fi and MP3 docking stations. There are bathrobes, slippers, ironing board and iron, safe, hairdryer and umbrella. An abundance of quality toiletries are on offer in all rooms along with great fluffy towels. A Tassimo coffee / tea machine sits above the fully-stocked mini-bar, along with a full bucket of ice.

Mid afternoon at Rocpool Reserve Hotel and the hallways exude an atmosphere of quiet, modern elegance. At the end of one corridor though, just a few yards away, behind an anonymous, unmarked door, there’s a completely different world, the world of the restaurant kitchen…And the buzz, like every night, when out of the chaos it all comes together into something special, something great.

Food is available all day and you can eat in your room, in R Bar where a delicious and informal but good quality menu operates, or in the White Room Restaurant where lunch and dinner are served. The contemporary surroundings of the R Bar are perfect for relaxing with a cocktail before dinner.  Dining in the White Room is a chance for guests to enjoy the designer surroundings and the lovely view over the city. The cream and black décor is set off by a dramatic carpet, contemporary (and comfy) white leather armchairs and crisp white linen tablecloths. Elegant single lilies enhance the amply-sized tables. The dress code is smart casual, but dressing up would not be inappropriate, particularly on a Saturday evening. It’s not at all stuffy – but is quality.

On the 1st of April, 2009, Albert Roux OBE is to open his first restaurant in Scotland.  The multi-award winning chef, often cited as the most influential of his profession, has announced his plans to take-over the kitchens of Rocpool Reserve.  Speaking as he hosted a gourmet introductory weekend at Rocpool Reserve, Mr. Roux said “When I was first invited to Rocpool Reserve I was astounded by the hotel’s elegance and style, which I think is unrivalled outside London.”  The focus will be on French Country Cooking that can be found on any kitchen table around France with the added touch of using local produce.  It is the type of food Albert Roux grew up with and enjoys cooking.

In one day you can conquer a mountain, visit a castle, launch out on a loch and dip into a distillery. Mysterious Loch Ness, atmospheric Culloden, bronze-age standing stones, the Cairngorms National Park. It’s all there – romance, wildlife, the great outdoors and a warm Highland welcome.  Not to mention the joys of traditional links golf, with courses to test players of all levels, from the tigers to the rabbits. There’s even a championship course rated fifth in the world outside the USA.

Inverness, the capital of the Highlands, with its tempting shops and great selection of pubs, restaurants and late-night venues, is regularly placed in the top five most desirable places to live in the UK. The Eden Court Theatre and Cinema is a short walk from the hotel. And every summer the city’s rich events programme includes the drama and dazzle of the Inverness Tattoo.
Winners of Scottish Hotel of the Year 2006 and 2007, Scottish Boutique Hotel of the Year 2007, Scottish Small City Hotel of the year 2008 and Conde Nast Johansens Most Excellent UK City Hotel 2008, Rocpol Reserve offers you an indulgent stay in the Scottish Highlands.

Emphasizing quality and elegance over glitz and glamour, award-winning Rocpool Reserve Hotel sets a new standard for hotel excellence. This discreet gem is perfectly situated in the heart of Inverness, allowing you to spend a day looking for Nessie in Loch Ness or golfing the Scottish links. In the evening, toast your adventure with cocktails in the split-level, stylish r Bar. Retire to your room (choose from hip, chic, decadent and extra-decadent room types), and enjoy a supersize king bed, flat-screen television and Wi-Fi access. Outdoor hot tubs and “power showers” complete the Rocpool’s trendy vibe.

Be sure to visit Chez Roux Restaurant. Chef Albert Roux OBE, KFO presents Scottish ingredients with a French twist.Distance from Inverness Airport (INV): 7 mi/11 km